Direct flights from Riyadh to Moscow have started
Saudia’s new Riyadh–Moscow route deepens Russian–Saudi ties
On October 10, the first direct flight by Saudi Arabia’s national carrier, Saudia, landed at Sheremetyevo Airport, Moscow. For the first time, the capitals of the two countries have been connected by the Middle Eastern nation’s flagship airline.
Three flights per week are scheduled on this route, offering Saudi Arabia’s guests the pleasure of discovering Moscow’s historical and cultural treasures, gems of ballet and classical music. Moscow has a lot to offer to families with children on holidays, as well as visits to innovation centers and for shopping. Data shows that 31% of Saudi Arabian visitors come to Moscow with families, and 18% are bringing their children.
High level of service makes the Moscow trip easy and enjoyable. In the first six months of 2025, 1.3 times more tourists from Saudi Arabia visited Moscow than in the same period of 2024. Compared to 2019, the influx has increased almost tenfold.
The inaugural flight to the capital brought a delegation from Saudi Arabia, headed by the Director General of Saudia Group, Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar. He was accompanied by heads of the airline’s key departments.
It’s my second time in Moscow in two months. I’ve been here in August for Moscow Fashion week, and enjoyed the beautiful atmosphere, lovely people and rich culture and heritage. I look forward to coming again especially now that we have a direct flight!
The new flight shows the sustainability and deepening of the Russian-Saudi Arabian relationship. It will also help in developing business relations between the two countries, as 13% of guests from Saudi Arabia are coming to Moscow for business purposes.
